Edge of The World 10k & Freezeroo Thoughts

Part one of the 2 day racing weekend was the 'Edge of the World 10k', which also happened to be the final race of the Freezeroo Series I have been doing. This was actually on Saturday and then I ran Lake Effect Half Marathon on Sunday.

Going into the race I was feeling good with 2 rest days prior, but I also am well aware that anything can happen. Did I think I would PR...possibly, but not certainly. Spoiler- I didn't. While I may not have PR'd, I certainly ran a strong race(for me) and feel good heading into early season runs.

Having Hollie there to warm-up with definitely made me happy, as well as seeing so many other runner friends that I know. It was also nice know that we were ALL going to be dealing with the wicked wind. At least no one blew away, that I know of.

About a mile into the race, my first time breaking out my flats for the year. I still love the neon laces.

It was actually a decent day, sunny and blue skies but the wind was killer. I knew it was going to affect me (everyone) but I tried my best.

The first 2 miles I was feeling good, it was easy and relaxed. I was also running faster than expected and started thinking about a possible PR. First two miles were in the 6:25-6:30 range, too fast but I think on another day I would have maintained it.

Around Mile 4 &5 the headwind became ridiculous, Mile 4 was just under 7 min pace and mile 5 was 7:18. Now before you go thinking this was because I was tired from starting fast, that might be part of it but the main issue was the headwind. I felt like I was standing still, my legs and everything were still feeling good but there is only so much you can do with 20+ mph headwind.

Final Sprint to the finish line. 

Luckily when we made the last turn we had a slight tailwind/cross wind and nothing directly in our faces. I was able to pick up the pace and actually passed the second place girl within the last half mile. I finished in 41:44 which is only 20 seconds slower than my PR.

I really didn't care if I PR'd or not, the Freezeroo series was about hard workouts for me. I feel really strong after the last few races and know that there is no way I would have gotten my half marathon PR the following day at Lake Effect had I not done the series. There is something to be said about continuing to race through the winter. No, the weather conditions for each of the races wasn't ideal, but that's the point. Learn to run hard when the conditions are harder. Was I happy to wake up early every other Saturday in the blistering cold and snow for these? No, but I am certainly glad that I did. I only did 4 of the 6 races this year, as the first 2 were in December when I was still recovering from CIM. I'm looking forward to doing the series again next year as it was a great way to stay motivated during the winter.

The other Freezeroo Recaps if you are interested: Pineway Ponds 5 mile, Hearnish Race, Valentines 8 Mile

After the 4 races, I ended up in 3rd place overall for females. Each race is scored on points and where you rank among other series runners.  I was happy to be able to place in top 3, and hopefully can increase that standing next year.

Have you ever done a race series?

I really enjoyed it as I was able to meet new people, spend time with friends, and build healthy competition with others. 

Winter racing, Love or hate? 

Definitely a love-hate for me, it certainly made me tougher and prepared me for a great spring.